British Sea Power Let the Dancers Inherit the Party

Much loved indie group British Sea Power have returned with a collection of songs that showcase the strongest elements of their music, giving listeners space for contemplation while also bringing a healthy dose of high-energy rock.

Exquisitely crafted, the album's introductory instrumental track is an extension of closer, "Alone Piano," providing seamless repeated listens, but there's plenty in the middle to love, too. Lead single "Bad Bohemian" is upbeat, with an '80s influenced bass line, and Yan Wilkinson's melancholic lyrics: "It's sad now how the glass looks rather empty / The formulation of the elements makes you yearn." Third track "What You're Doing," led by the softer vocals of Wilkinson's brother, Hamilton, contrasts sharply, its warm drums and guitars bringing wide-open spaces to mind as Hamilton brings a feeling of optimism to the song. It's complemented by "Keep on Trying (Sechs Freunde)," an invigorating track with brilliant guitar interplay and a strong rhythm section.

"Electrical Kittens" features Abi Fry's beautiful violin playing, and feels like a quintessential British Sea Power song with its emotional intensity. "Praise For Whatever," meanwhile, captures the band's ability to pry bombast out of melancholy, as the drama grows from Yan's first lines while the bass and guitars build. The lyrics perfectly express the world of contrasts we live in: "It's such a convoluted hour / To play amongst the flowers / When we're counting all the missiles down, from three to one to none."

On Let the Dancers Inherit the Party, British Sea Power seek to express the confusion and despair — and, most importantly, the hope — felt during these trying times. Their music doesn't shy away from the contradictions of life, and provides motivation to "keep on trying."
(Golden Chariot/Caroline International)